Universal Paints is a premium brand that manufactures quality-guaranteed paint developed by expert technical teams. The company began as a family business in 1982 and was acquired by Medu Capital in 2016. Since its inception, it has grown into one of the most highly trusted names in the paint industry. The brand boasts a rich heritage spanning decades of experience in manufacturing and production. It has established a strong reputation for offering superior quality products at affordable prices.

The company supplies and services a market segment that values quality, longevity, and expert service. Staff members are fully trained to provide both friendly customer service and technical support, including the ability to mix and match any colour sample brought into the stores. Universal Paints products are available exclusively through its dedicated direct outlets.

The target market comprises DIY enthusiasts, property developers, contractors, and professionals involved in both commercial and residential specification sectors.

The primary objective is to support business growth, enhance wealth creation, and improve returns on investment. Each retail environment is unique, and support is provided to assess business performance, identify opportunities, and implement store-specific growth plans, including local and community-based initiatives. Growth opportunities often arise from direct sales to contractors, developers, architectural projects, DIY markets, and other commercial or residential initiatives.

• Quality Guaranteed
• Expert Paint Advice
• Paint Mixing & Matching

The product range, developed and formulated by expert technical teams, enables the offering of a comprehensive solution within the decorative paint market. The business model allows for flexibility in complementary and associated product offerings, which may vary from one outlet to another.

Direct outlets offer high-quality complementary brands and associated products through affiliation with EST Africa (Elite Star Trading). In addition to the exclusive Universal Paints range, EST membership provides access to group pricing and additional suppliers for complementary, associated, and non-competing products at no extra cost to the direct outlet.

Universal Paints direct outlets operate under licence to individual owners and supply a complete range of products suitable for the decorative market. The model offers flexibility in providing complementary and associated products through partnerships with EST and other suppliers.

The only recurring fee is a minimal monthly marketing contribution. Unlike most franchise systems, there are no joining fees, royalties, or ongoing management fees. Revenue earned remains with the outlet operator.

Estimated establishment costs include an owner’s contribution of R100,000 (excluding VAT) towards the marketing launch, which the factory matches.

Universal Paints does not profit from store builds and provides ongoing support throughout the setup process. The factory offers assistance to facilitate the establishment of new outlets.

• Lease negotiations
• Design and layout
• Signage, branding and marketing collateral
• Equipment and point of sale
• Shopfitting and store fit-out
• Recommended opening stock orders
• Technical & operational support 
• Execution of the marketing launch plan